Your first move is to determine if you’re a first-time applicant or simply refreshing an expired document. If this is your very first passport, your previous one vanished, or it expired over 15 years ago, you’ll tackle Form DS-11. This also applies to minors under 16, regardless of prior passports. On the flip side, if you’re holding an unexpired or recently expired (within 5 years) adult passport, you’ll likely use Form DS-82 for a renewal. Knowing which form you need from the get-go prevents wasted trips and streamlines the entire journey. Check the official State Department website for detailed criteria on each application type before moving forward.

Next up, you need solid evidence proving you’re a U.S. citizen. For most, this means your original birth certificate – make sure it has that fancy raised seal and was issued by the city, county, or state of birth, not just a hospital copy. Alternatively, a previous, undamaged U.S. passport (even if expired) works wonders. If you’re missing your birth certificate and were born in Louisiana, you’d contact the Louisiana Department of Health, Vital Records Registry, to secure an official copy. Remember, these documents must be originals; photocopies won’t cut it, so guard them closely!

Beyond proving your citizenship, you’ll also need a valid form of identification to prove you are who you say you are. A current, government-issued photo ID is essential. This typically means your Louisiana driver’s license or a state-issued identification card. Ensure it’s not expired! You’ll need to present the original document and provide a clear photocopy of both the front and back. The acceptance agent will verify your identity against this ID. If you’re using an out-of-state ID, sometimes secondary identification might be requested, so it’s always wise to have an extra form ready, like a work ID or student ID, just in case.

Time for your close-up! Your passport photo has very specific requirements: it must be recent (taken within the last six months), 2×2 inches in size, full-color, with a white or off-white background. No selfies, no filters, and definitely no glasses unless medically necessary with a doctor’s note. Headshots must be head-on, showing your full face with a neutral expression or a natural, slight smile. Many local spots in Bossier City can handle this for you quickly and correctly. Think about places like Walgreens, CVS Pharmacy, or even The UPS Store on Airline Dr. or Benton Rd; they’re familiar with the exact specifications.

Now for the actual application form. You can find both DS-11 and DS-82 forms online at travel.state.gov, which you can fill out electronically and print, or print blank copies to complete by hand. Make sure all your information is accurate and legible. For first-time applicants using Form DS-11, and this is crucial, **DO NOT SIGN THE FORM** until you are in the presence of a passport acceptance agent. They must witness your signature. For renewals (DS-82), you can sign it before arriving. Double-check every field for errors; a simple mistake can cause significant delays.

With all your documents in hand, your photo ready, and your form completed (but unsigned if it’s a DS-11), it’s time for the final delivery. You’ll need to visit a passport acceptance facility. In Bossier City, several post office branches typically serve this role. The Bossier City Post Office on Airline Dr. is a common option, but always call ahead or check the State Department’s website for current hours and if appointments are required. Bring all your original documents, copies, your photo, and your payment (check or money order for the application fee, plus a separate execution fee often paid to the facility).